Falling in the right position

Your rugby players can't always fall the way they want to in a tackle, but you can coach them to try to always land on top of the opposition player, whether tackling or being tackled.

They should also fall so they end up on their front rather than on their back or side. This makes it easier to protect the ball if they have been tackled, and is a much easier position to get up from.

Making "falling well" a habit will make your players think about twisting as they drop to the ground, and so give themselves a better platform to get up from.

Developing speed off the ground

Getting back up is not a chance for a rest. It should be an explosive movement where the legs and arms are used together to push up.

Think of a surfer moving from a prone position to a standing position. The arms straighten and the knees explode up towards the chest, bringing the feet underneath the body.

This leads to a strong balanced crouched position ideal for competing for the ball or moving into position in any direction.

Look and move

As soon as the player is upright, they need to look around and assess the situation. They should ask themselves where they are going to be needed for the next phase.

They then need to get there quickly.

Communication from the players who are already on their feet and can see what is happening is crucial for helping team mates to get back in the game.

Do your players know the game plan?

It takes time for players to learn to read the game. Don't expect them to always get into the right positions.

Ensure players understand your game plan in attack and defence. This will help them read the game quicker and get into position faster.

Key rugby coaching tips

When regaining their feet your players can use the opposition player to help them up faster. It also keeps the opponent down longer.

Placing the hands on the opponent's body gives more leverage to get up quicker.

This article is taken from Rugby Coach Weekly.

Published each week, Rugby Coach Weekly contains advice, tips and secrets about coaching rugby to inexperienced players.

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